18 JULY, 2023
Ayaan Paul Chowdhury
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
Switzerland and Italy are now connected by a newly launched cable car, offering an exciting travel option.
The cable car links the picturesque town of Zermatt in Switzerland with the charming Alpine resort town of Cervinia in Italy.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
Previously, the only way to reach Cervinia from Zermatt was by skiing, but now travellers have a more convenient and scenic option.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
The cable car is part of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing route, which provides breathtaking views of the iconic Matterhorn and the stunning Alps throughout the journey.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing route consists of multiple sections, with the newly launched cable car serving as the final link.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
The cable car line is operated by Matterhorn Zermatt Bergbahnen, and it is considered the highest-altitude border crossing in the Alps.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
The journey on the cable car takes approximately an hour and a half, including stops along the way to enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
Matterhorn Glacier Ride I was opened in 2018 and connects the Trockener Steg station to the Klein Matterhorn station, providing a panoramic view of the Matterhorn.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
Matterhorn Glacier Ride II, the new 3S cableway, starts from the Klein Matterhorn cable car station at 3,883 metres and connects with the Testa Grigia Valley station in Italy at 3,458 meters.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
The cabins in Matterhorn Glacier Ride II are designed by the renowned Italian car design firm, Pininfarina, known for its work with automobile brands like Ferrari and Maserati.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
Passengers can choose from different ticket options, including round-trip tickets or one-way tickets with optional starting points in either Cervinia or Zermatt.
Photo: Zermatt Bergbahnen.
A round-trip costs 240 CHF or Rs 21,885. Those with a Swiss travel pass can avail a 50% off on the fare.